CORRECTION: A previous version of the article referred to B Academics as a summer program instead of a global network. A previous version of this article also referred to Thomas by her middle and last name. Elon News Network deeply regrets these hours.

Students and faculty gathered in McKinnon Hall Oct. 7 to hear North Carolina State University professor Jessica Yinka Thomas, director of the Business Sustainability Collaborative, deliver the keynote address, kicking off Elon University's Sustainability Week.

The Business Sustainability Collaborative at NC State works to integrate environmental and social responsibility into business, education, and industry partnerships. 

Thomas discussed B Corps, which are companies that demonstrate high social and environmental performance.

“Their vision is to build an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economic system for all people and the planet,” Yinka Thomas said.

Before entering academia, Thomas began her career as a product designer at the toy company LeapFrog, where she led the design team for several educational products. 

She described this work as one of the most rewarding parts of her career, but said she now wishes she had thought more deeply about what happened to the products after they left consumers’ hands.

After leaving LeapFrog, Thomas has been working in academia for the past 20 years. She has taught and researched business sustainability. Through her work, she helps students and companies understand how business can drive positive social and environmental change. She also highlighted B Academics, a global network that teaches students and academics about B Corps and researches and engages with B Corps.

Thomas noted that B Corps are not only creating positive social and environmental change, but also showing strong financial performance and resilience. She encouraged students to take part in that impact. 

“Join me as a disruptor, whether it’s through B Academics and working with B Corps or by pursuing whatever sustainability issue or movement you’re passionate about,” Thomas said.

Kelly Harer, Elon’s Associate Director of Sustainability, spoke about the university’s ongoing efforts to engage the campus community in sustainability initiatives.

“It’s important for folks to understand there are many ways to work toward sustainability,” Harer said. 

Harer emphasized the importance of building community around sustainability and of teaching people how to incorporate sustainability into their daily lives. 

Elon will continue its celebration of Sustainability Week with events throughout the week. According to Elon’s Office of Sustainability, the week also highlights ongoing efforts to reduce the university’s environmental impact and promote a culture of sustainability.

Wednesday, Oct. 8

S’mores with outdoors

9 p.m. - 10 p.m. | Beck Pool Patio

Thursday, Oct. 9 

Caprese Skewers Pop-Up

11 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Clohan Dining Hall 

Pop Up Swap Shop

1 p.m. - 2 p.m. | Moseley Center

Book Discussion: Saving Ourselves: From Climate Shocks to Climate Action by Dana Fisher 

4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. | The Inn at Elon 

Yoga in Nature: Returning to Roots through Plants and Meditation 

5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Under the Oaks 

Friday, Oct. 10

Tote-ally Sustainable 

1 p.m. - 3 p.m. | Elon Community Garden 

Pop Up Swap Shop

2 p.m. - 5 p.m. | Moseley Center